The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA Fiji) has defended its Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) programme, saying it remains one of the most effective and humane long-term solutions for managing the country’s free-roaming dog population.
In a social media post, the organisation reaffirmed its support for TNR after Permanent Secretary for Agriculture Dr Andrew Tukana revealed last week that the Ministry has trapped and desexed more than 2,000 stray dogs so far this year and has no plans to introduce a trap-and-euthanise policy.
SPCA Fiji said it has worked alongside the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry for many years to deliver the programme.
“We understand that TNR may not be supported by everyone, and we respect that there are different opinions. However, based on our experience, research, and the data we have collected over the years, we believe TNR is one of the most effective long-term strategies for managing free-roaming dog populations humanely.”
The organisation said many of the dogs captured through the programme are not genuinely stray animals.
“One thing many people may not realise is that a large proportion of the dogs brought into our trapping programme are not truly stray dogs. They are owned dogs that are allowed to roam freely.”
SPCA Fiji said its observations and research show roaming owned dogs are often responsible for forming packs, scavenging through rubbish and being involved in incidents where people are chased or bitten.
“In contrast, genuinely stray dogs are often fearful of people and tend to avoid human interaction whenever possible.”
The organisation also said many long-term stray dogs are poorly suited to life in domestic homes.
“Many long-term stray dogs have adapted to life on the streets and do not always cope well when placed in a home environment. For these animals, TNR can be a more appropriate and humane option.”
SPCA Fiji stressed that desexing prevents unwanted litters while vaccinated and monitored dogs no longer contribute to population growth.
The organisation added that TNR alone is not enough to solve the issue.
“Responsible pet ownership, desexing owned pets, proper confinement, education, and community support all play an important role in reducing the number of roaming dogs and improving public safety.”
SPCA Fiji said it will continue working with the Ministry and communities to deliver “humane, practical, and evidence-based programmes” aimed at improving animal welfare while creating safer communities.
